Interpret Your Car's Warning Lights
Usually occurring at the most inconvenient of times, the flashing of one of your car's warning lights signals immediately that something is wrong with your vehicle. People often just continue to drive, hoping the light will magically go away. This is rarely the case. Many warning lights illuminate as you start your car, but they go off shortly afterward. It is very important, that as a driver, you know what your car's warning lights mean and how to appropriately respond to them.
Steps
- Turn your engine off immediately if your oil pressure light comes on while you're driving. It is a sign that something is wrong with the oil levels in your engine. If the oil levels decrease too much, there won't be enough oil left to lubricate your engine's moving parts. This will result in a ruined engine. When the light comes on, check the oil after turning off the engine. If it's low, add some oil as soon as possible. If you have to drive a few miles to get oil, the engine will likely be safe. But, if you drive many miles, you run the risk of running too low. If your oil level appears to be sufficient when you check it, don't dismiss the light's warning. Your oil pump could be malfunctioning or a sensor could be out. Check with a mechanic soon.
- Pay close attention to your battery light. If it comes on while you are driving, it could mean several things. Your car could have a loose connection to your battery. Your battery could be going bad. Your car's alternator could be malfunctioning or the belt that connects to it could be broken or loose. While the battery light does not mean that your car is likely to die on you while you're driving, it can indicate that you will have trouble starting your car next time you try to go somewhere. A mechanic can help you decipher what this light means in your vehicle.
- Check to see if your parking brake is engaged if your brake system light is illuminated. If your parking brake is disengaged, check your brake fluid. If your brake fluid is low, add more. This should fix the problem. If it doesn't, there may be an issue with a sensor. Take your car to the shop and have it checked out.
- React immediately if your engine light comes on as you're driving. Pull over to the side, and shut off your car's engine. Wait approximately two minutes. As you're waiting, get out and check that your gas tank cap is on and screwed tightly. Waiting allows the car's computer system to reset itself. Start your car again, and watch for whether the light comes back on to stay. If it does, this indicates that your car's catalytic converter or exhaust system is malfunctioning. Often, the light flashes. Count the number of times it flashes and compare it to information provided in your owner's manual. Follow the advice in your manual. This light typically indicates a problem that needs immediate correction. However, this light warns of simple sensor issues, too.
- Drive carefully if your anti-lock brake system light comes on. Often, vehicles may be driven even with a malfunctioning anti-lock brake system. When possible, ask a mechanic to look at your car for you.
- Get to a gas station immediately if your low fuel light comes on. This means that your gas tank is nearly empty.
